The phoenix painting utilizes authentic gold leaf to maintain its vibrant appearance despite being over 175 years old.
Hokusai moved to Obuse in his late 80s to avoid the restrictions of Edo-period urban centers.
The phoenix's eyes were painted using a specific technique that creates a gaze that follows visitors regardless of their position.
The temple serves as the final resting place for the legendary haiku poet Issa Kobayashi.
The ceiling painting escaped destruction during a major fire that burned the previous hall structure in the mid-19th century.
The temple is one of the few remaining sites where Hokusai's original large-scale ceiling work is preserved in its intended environment.
The phoenix painting is officially designated as a prefectural cultural asset.
Takai Kozan, a wealthy merchant and patron, was instrumental in bringing Hokusai to Obuse.
Gansho-in is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple located in Obuse, Nagano, famous for the 'Happo Nirami Ho-o Zu,' a large phoenix painting on the main hall ceiling by Hokusai Katsushika. The painting covers 21 square meters and features gold leaf and mineral pigments. Completed in 1848, the phoenix appears to track the viewer from any angle due to precise shading and perspective techniques. Hokusai, who spent his final years in Obuse under the patronage of Takai Kozan, also created the temple's altar carvings. The temple grounds include a pond and garden where the haiku poet Issa Kobayashi, a contemporary of Hokusai, is buried. Issa’s famous poem about a frog is inscribed on a stone monument within the temple precincts. The wooden main hall architecture reflects mid-Edo period craftsmanship.
The exterior garden and the pond area, specifically the moss-covered pathways.
Use the provided binoculars or mirrors in the main hall to get a closer view of the ceiling details.
Walk the perimeter of the pond to see the grave of Issa Kobayashi.
Check the official website for current viewing conditions before arrival.
Attempting to take photos inside the main hall, as it is heavily monitored and forbidden to protect the painting.
None.
Remove shoes before entering the main hall; photography of the ceiling painting is strictly prohibited.
